20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that comes together in just 20 minutes, this Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl is the perfect choice. Succulent shrimp are cooked in a rich, sweet, and savory honey garlic sauce, then served over a warm bed of fluffy rice. It’s a satisfying, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something delicious with minimal effort.

A Quick and Delicious Shrimp Dish

Shrimp is one of the best proteins for a fast meal because it cooks in minutes and absorbs flavors beautifully. In this recipe, the shrimp is sautéed in a mouthwatering honey garlic sauce that caramelizes as it cooks, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and umami.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
• Incredible Flavor – A perfect blend of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic.
• Healthy & Light – High in protein and can be served with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
• Minimal Ingredients – Uses simple pantry staples to create a restaurant-quality dish.

This dish is perfect for a last-minute dinner idea or meal prep, and once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!

Ingredients for 20-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

To create this flavorful and satisfying dish, you’ll need a handful of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to form the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness.

• Shrimp – 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen shrimp work well, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw them first.
• Honey – ¼ cup of honey adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
• Soy Sauce – ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce enhances the savory umami flavor while keeping the dish well-balanced.
• Garlic – 4 cloves of garlic, minced, to infuse the dish with a deep, aromatic taste.
• Ginger – 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger adds a slight spice and warmth to the sauce.
• Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon of olive oil for sautéing the shrimp to perfection.
• Rice – 2 cups of cooked white or brown rice to serve as the perfect base for the shrimp and sauce.
• Cornstarch (optional) – 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water can be added to thicken the sauce if desired.
• Green Onions & Sesame Seeds (for garnish) – Adds a fresh and slightly nutty finish to the dish.

---

How to Make Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps to get a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Before you start cooking the shrimp, make sure your rice is ready. If you haven’t already, cook your rice according to package instructions and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in the cornstarch slurry as well. Set this aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly golden.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour the honey garlic sauce over the cooked shrimp and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. The sauce will start to caramelize and coat the shrimp beautifully. If using cornstarch, stir until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the cooked shrimp and sauce over a bowl of warm rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This dish is simple, yet packed with flavor, making it a go-to meal that you can prepare in minutes.

How Long to Cook Shrimp

Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking them can result in a tough, rubbery texture. Here’s a general guideline for perfectly cooked shrimp:

• Small shrimp (51-60 count per pound) – 1-2 minutes per side.
• Medium shrimp (41-50 count per pound) – 2-3 minutes per side.
• Large shrimp (31-40 count per pound) – 3-4 minutes per side.

You’ll know the shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, with a slight golden sear on the edges. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook slightly in the hot sauce.

---

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can store and reheat them easily for another quick and delicious meal.

• Refrigerator: Store cooked shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 months. It’s best to store the rice separately to prevent it from becoming too soggy when reheated.

Reheating Tips:

• Microwave: Reheat shrimp and rice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm the shrimp in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent drying out.

---

Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

For the most flavorful and perfectly cooked dish, follow these expert tips:

• Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Shrimp – Fresh shrimp have the best texture, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking and a nice sear. If needed, cook in batches.
• Adjust Sweetness and Saltiness – If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey slightly. For a lower-sodium version, use low-sodium soy sauce.
• Add a Spicy Kick – Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for a little heat.
• Experiment with Toppings – Try adding crushed peanuts, avocado slices, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for extra texture and flavor.

This dish is endlessly customizable, making it a perfect go-to meal for any night of the week!

Print